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NFL network is evaluating 32 teams in 32 days based on fans’ perception of where teams rank. Yesterday was the 17th day and as you might guess that’s where NFL network viewers ranked the San Francisco 49ers -17th overall, just barely in the bottom half of the league.

Analyst Brian Baldinger did most of the analysis on the team and he’s convinced the 49ers will go back to being a running team. I can’t argue with him. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the 49ers go into the season with the same run emphasis of a year ago. The difference is they now have Mike Iupati and Anthony Davis, two hulking run blockers. However, if that run-first approach falters, look for the team to go quickly to a balanced attack.

Can Alex Smith carry the mail as a drop-back passer?

However, balance will be contingent upon Alex Smith developing as a drop-back passer. With Smith under center, he’ll have the ability to call two plays in the huddle, one run and one pass. He’ll then go to one or the other depending upon the defense. Poster Skeebers brought up an interesting point about Smith under center being an blogger’s invention instead of a real concern. However, offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye mentioned Smith’s ability to drop back as needed part of the offense.

Also, shortly after the season, I compared Smith’s stats as a drop back passer to his shotgun numbers:

Under Center: 65-of-109 for 776 yards, eight touchdowns, six interceptions, 13 sacks and an 83 rating.

In the gun: 160-of-263 for 1,574 yards, 10 tds, six picks, nine sacks, and an 81 rating.

As you can see far more sacks and an equal amount of interceptions in far fewer snaps under center. For a young quarterback, being under center is more difficult. You can’t see the defense as well, it’s harder to discern throwing lanes and you have to worry more about mechanics instead of reading the defense. With another year in the same system, Smith should be better as a drop back passer.